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Topic: Front bulkhead problem prevention (Read 350 times) previous topic - next topic

Front bulkhead problem prevention

My front bulkhead is in good condition and i want to keep it that way.
I was thinking of putting 4 inch flex tape from one side to the other.
That way no rainwater while driving  will find its way in.
Any commenta?
Rick & MJ Berry
1998 U320 40'
Ohio

Re: Front bulkhead problem prevention

Reply #1 –
Quote from: 18360 –
My front bulkhead is in good condition and i want to keep it that way.
I was thinking of putting 4 inch flex tape from one side to the other.
That way no rainwater while driving  will find its way in.
Any commenta?
I did something similar with automotive panel bonding adhesive. It worked as intended, but you are only solving one point of vulnerability for water intrusion. If water comes in from the top, now, all you have done is made it even harder for it to be evacuated.
1987 Grand Villa ORED
2001 U320 4010

Not all that wander are lost... but I often am.

Re: Front bulkhead problem prevention

Reply #2 –
My experience is mostly with the rear bulkhead, but it may be useful.

We had little rust on the bulkhead framework, just surface rust and some minor pitting.  The exposed threads of the bolts were mostly gone.  If I remember, two or three of the eighteen bolts still had heads connected to the "tails."  A previous owner, probably long ago, had sealed the bottom edge of the rear bulkhead joint with caulk.

My theory is that the caulk stopped debris from falling through.  The debris got caught and, for long periods, stayed wet.  I remember it took a couple of hours with a putty knife to clear the little gap between the bulkhead and frame.

My own opinion is that the best strategy is to keep the channel open, and clean it out periodically.  Anything that slows or stops water or debris from getting in, also stops it from getting out.
Matt B
1998 u-320

Re: Front bulkhead problem prevention

Reply #3 –
Stay off of salted roads even in early spring.
Pat/Blue Angel
1995 U240 36ft
MC# 16511
Build# 4653
 

Re: Front bulkhead problem prevention

Reply #4 –
Brett Wolfe has a good white paper on here and I think he recommended something like auto undercoating.  It may be good to read his writeup and see if maybe you like that idea.
1996 U295 36' WTBI